Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Indian Mutiny 1857-59, 1 clasp, Central India (Hugh Laird, 72nd Highlanders) good very fine £240-£280

Hugh Laird was born at Beith, Ayrshire, on 14 March 1839, and enlisted into the 72nd Highlanders on 21 March 1856, a painter by trade. He was discharged in April 1866, after 10 years and 13 days with the Colours, of which more than 8 years were spent in India and was in the possession of one Good Conduct Badge. After his discharge, he spent an additional 21 years in the army reserve.

While serving in India, he was part of the detachment under Lieutenant Vesey, consisting of 100 men of the Light and No.4 Companies, who had been mounted on camels, and attached to a column of Light and Irregular cavalry. He was present at the siege of Kotah and the battles of Bunaso and Oodeypore. They returned to quarters at Mhow, having been under canvas in the Field for almost 17 months, and having marched over 3000 miles.

He died at Houston, Bridge of Weir, Renfrewshire, on 19 July 1899. Sold with copied discharge papers.